1 Peter 3-5

Notes compiled with my BSF group


1 Peter 3-5


http://www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm?AuthorID=4&contentID=1840&commInfo=5&topic=1%20Peter


Matthew Henry
Wherein the apostle describes the duties of husbands and wives one to another, beginning with the duty of the wife (v. 1-7). He exhorts Christians to unity, love, compassion, peace, and patience under sufferings; to oppose the slanders of their enemies, not by returning evil for evil, or railing for railing, but by blessing; by a ready account of their faith and hope, and by keeping a good conscience (v. 8–17). To encourage them to this, he proposes the example of Christ, who suffered, the just for the unjust, but yet punished the old world for their disobedience, and saved the few who were faithful in the days of Noah (v. 18 to the end).


1 Peter 3:1–2
In the previous passage (1 Peter 2:13-25), we learned how Jesus submitted to authorities. Wives are to submit to husbands in the same way.


1 Corinthians 11:3 says, “Now I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.” Furthermore, both men and women are a part of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-31). We are all equals, but we have different roles. As defined by God, the role of men is to lead his household with love as Christ led the Church with love, and the role of women is to follow her husband with love and support, as Church is taught to follow Christ with love and support.
Biblically, husbands leading well and wives following well are important because GOD SAID SO. This is what God considers a Biblical marriage.


Practically, husbands leading well and wives following well are important because these factors ensure a healthy marriage that would last an eternity.


1 Peter 1:3
Peter is stressing that beauty comes from our inner self, not from what we wear.


Back in Peter’s time, ungodly women or prostitutes used their outer beauty to seduce men. They wore shiny jewelry and braided their hair so that they would stand out. It is not wrong to be physically beautiful, for we are all children of God, and God created each one of us with purpose. However, it is sinful to use our assets to cause others to stumble. For example, we know that marriage, under God, is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman. How then, could a woman of God use her physical beauty to seduce multiple men? Furthermore, the sacred marital relationship between a husband and a wife is based on love and respect. What then, is the kind of relationship between a man and a woman that is established on sexual seduction?


Here, Peter is telling us that true beauty is the beauty of our soul. We should cultivate our minds by following God and allow our inner beauty shine through. Paul spoke against wearing jewelry and braided hair because those represented ungodly women and prostitutes who thought beauty is what we see on the outside. Peter is telling us not to dress like them but focus on our inner beauty.


Matthew Henry
In preferring the ornaments of the mind to those of the body. [1.] He lays down a rule in regard to the dress of religious women, v. 3. Here are three sorts of ornaments forbidden: plaiting of hair, which was commonly used in those times by lewd women; wearing of gold, or ornaments made of gold, was practised by Rebecca, and Esther, and other religious women, but afterwards became the attire chiefly of harlots and wicked people; putting on of apparel, which is not absolutely forbidden, but only too much nicety and costliness in it. Learn, First, Religious people should take care that all their external behaviour be answerable to their profession of Christianity: They must be holy in all manner of conversation. Secondly, The outward adorning of the body is very often sensual and excessive; for instance, when it is immoderate, and above your degree and station in the world, when you are proud of it and puffed up with it, when you dress with design to allure and tempt others, when your apparel is too rich, curious, or superfluous, when your fashions are fantastical, imitating the levity and vanity of the worst people, and when they are immodest and wanton. The attire of a harlot can never become a chaste Christian matron. [2.] Instead of the outward adorning of the body, he directs Christian wives to put on much more excellent and beautiful ornaments, v. 4. Here note, First, The part to be adorned: The hidden man of the heart; that is, the soul; the hidden, the inner man. Take care to adorn and beautify your souls rather than your bodies.Secondly, The ornament prescribed. It must, in general, be somethingnot corruptible, that beautifies the soul, that is, the graces and virtues of God’s Holy Spirit. The ornaments of the body are destroyed by the moth, and perish in the using; but the grace of God, the longer we wear it, the brighter and better it is. More especially, the finest ornament of Christian women is a meek and quiet spirit, a tractable easy temper of mind, void of passion, pride, and immoderate anger, discovering itself in a quiet obliging behaviour towards their husbands and families. If the husband be harsh, and averse to religion (which was the case of these good wives to whom the apostle gives this direction), there is no way so likely to win him as a prudent meek behaviour. At least, a quiet spirit will make a good woman easy to herself, which, being visible to others, becomes an amiable ornament to a person in the eyes of the world. Thirdly, The excellency of it. Meekness and calmness of spirit are, in the sight of God, of great price-amiable in the sight of men, and precious in the sight of God. Learn, 1. A true Christian’s chief care lies in the right ordering and commanding of his own spirit. Where the hypocrite’s work ends, there the true Christian’s work begins. 2. The endowments of the inner man are the chief ornaments of a Christian; but especially a composed, calm, and quiet spirit, renders either man or woman beautiful and lovely.


Life Application Study Bible:
* 1 Peter 3:1-7 A changed life speaks loudly and clearly, and it is often the most effective way to influence a family member. Peter instructs Christian wives to develop inner beauty rather than being overly concerned about their outward appearance. Their husbands will be won over by their love. This does not mean that Christian women should be dowdy and frumpy; it is good to take care of oneself and look one's best. But far more important is the developing of an inner spirit of godliness. Live your Christian faith quietly and consistently in your home, so that your family will see Christ in you. True beauty begins inside (Proverbs 31:30).


1 Peter 3:7
Women are generally physically weaker than men. This is why one of the husbands’ roles is to protect his wife. For details, check out Pastor Mark Driscoll's  detailed analysis of 1 Peter 3:7.


I think Driscoll described it best here: "Generally speaking, a woman is like a fine crystal glass and a man is like a thermos. One is not better than the other, but they are different. And, if you slam them together, the thermos always wins."



Life Application Study Bible
*1 Peter 3:7 When Peter says that women may be "weaker" than men, he was not implying moral or intellectual inferiority, but was recognizing women's physical limitations. Women in his day, if unprotected by men, were vulnerable to attack, abuse, and financial disaster. Women's lives may be easier today, but women are still vulnerable to criminal attack and family abuse. And in spite of increased opportunities in the workplace, many women still earn less than men, and the vast majority of the nations' poor are single mothers and their children. A man who honors his wife as a member of the weaker sex will protect, respect, help and stay with her. He will not expect her to work full-time outside the home and full-time at home; he will lighten her load wherever he can. He will be sensitive to her needs, and he will relate to her with courtesy, consideration, insight and tact.
*1 Peter 3:7 If a man is not considerate and respectful to his wife, his prayers will not be heard, because a living relationship with God depends on right relationship with others. Jesus said that if you have a problem with a fellow believer, you must make it right with that person before coming to worship (Matthew 5:23, 24). This principle carries over into family relationships. If men use their position to mistreat their wives, their prayers will e hindered.



1 Peter 3:8–22
Desirable characteristics for Christians in dealing with each other:
- Live in harmony
- Be sympathetic
- Love as brothers
- Be compassionate and humble
- Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing.


Life Application Study Bible:
*1 Peter 3:8 Peter lists five key elements that should characterize any group of believers: (1) one mind - pursuing the same goals; (2) sympathy - being responsive to others' needs; (3) love - seeing and treating each other as brothers and sisters; (4) tenderness - being affectionately sensitive and caring; and (5) humility - being willing to encourage one another and rejoice in each other's successes. These five qualities go a long way toward helping believers serve God effectively.
*1 Peter 3:8, 9 Where is God? How can we know God is real? Who says the Bible is any better than other holy books? To answer these questions, God sent his Son, Jesus Christ, as living evidence. God also chose Peter and others to show what a difference true faith makes in the real world. So here the once rash, belligerent, domineering, and arrogant Peter bears witness to a life of harmony, compassion, love, and humility. What a difference God makes! You, too, are God's witness to skeptical people. Let your life be evidence to God's truth. Let your pride become humility and your insensitivity give way to genuine affection for others.


1 Peter 3:9-12
Benefits of Christlike behavior:
- Inherit a blessing
- The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their prayer


Life Application Study Bible:
*1 Peter 3:9 In our fallen world, it is often deemed acceptable by some to tear people down verbally or to get back at them if we feel hurt. Peter, remembering Jesus' teaching to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39), encourages his readers to pay back wrongs with a blessing, such as praying for the offenders. In God's Kingdom, revenge is unacceptable behavior, as is insulting a person, no matter how indirectly it is done. Rise above getting back at those who hurt you. Instead of reacting angrily to these people, pray for them.
*1 Peter 3:11 Too often we see peace as merely the absence of conflict, and we think of peacemaking as a passive role. But an effective peacemaker actively pursues peace by building good relationships, knowing that peace is a by-product of commitment. The peacemaker anticipates problems and deals with them before they occur. When conflicts arise, they are brought into the open and dealt with before they grow unmanageable. Making peace is hard work - you have to search for it and work to maintain it - but it results in God's blessing.


1 Peter 3:13-17
We should not fear, because our heart follows Jesus. We should always be prepared to answer, but we should answer with gentleness and respect. We should keep a clear conscience and continue to do God’s work, so that when we stand in front of God, we will be declared righteous whereas those who slander us will be judged. As Peter said, “It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil” (1 Peter 3:17).


Life Application Bible Study:
*1 Peter 3:15 Some Christians believe that faith is a personal matter that should be kept to oneself. It is true that we shouldn't be boisterous or obnoxious in sharing our faith, but we should always be ready to give an answer, gently and respectfully, when asked about our faith, our life-style, or our Christian perspective. Can others see your hope in Christ? Are you prepared to tell them what Christ has done in your life?
*1 Peter 3:16 You may not be able to keep people from speaking evil against you, but you can at least stop supplying them with ammunition. As long as you do what is right, their accusations will be empty and only embarrass them. Keep your conduct above criticism!


1 Peter 3:19-20
This verse is a difficult study, and my groups wasn't sure what to make of it. I found the following references that may be helpful:
http://www.christiancourier.com/articles/99-preaching-to-the-spirits-in-prison
http://www.gotquestions.org/spirits-in-prison.html
http://www.gotquestions.org/where-was-Jesus.html
http://www.biblicalstudies.com/bstudy/expostudy/prison1.htm


Life Application Study Bible:
*1 Peter 3:18-20 The meaning of preaching "to the spirits in prison" is not completely clear, and commentators have explained it in different ways. The traditional interpretation is that between his death and resurrection, Christ announced salvation to God's faithful followers who had been waiting for their salvation during the whole Old Testament era. Some think that this passage says that Christ's Spirit was in Noah as Noah preached to those imprisoned by sin (but now in hell). Still others say that Christ went to Hades to proclaim his victory and final condemnation to the fallen angels imprisoned there since Noah's day (see 2 Peter 2:4). In any case, the passage shows that Christ's Good News of salvation and victory is not limited. While some Bible passages, such as this one, may remain unclear, we can discover certain truths from the along with the context of the rest of Scripture. In this passage, we discover that: (1) God speaks. While we puzzle over what, where, and how, we can see that God is communicating to the world. (2) God triumphs. Christ victoriously preached, indicating his power, control, and transcendence over all creation. (3) God saves. God exerts himself to rescue those who desire him. This mysterious passage tells us at least this much - and that is much indeed. 
*1 Peter 3:21 Peter says that Noah's salvation from the Flood symbolized baptism, a ceremony involving water. In baptism we identify with Jesus Christ, who separates us from the lost and gives us new life. It is not the ceremony that saves us; instead, the ceremony is evidence of our faith in Christ's death and resurrection. Baptism is a symbol of the cleansing that happens in the hearts of those who believe (Romans 6:3-5; Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12). By identifying themselves with Christ through baptism, Peter's readers could resist turning back, even under the pressure of persecution. Public baptism would keep them from the temptation to renounce their faith.


1 Peter 4
Matthew Henry
The work of a Christian is twofold—doing the will of God and suffering his pleasure. This chapter directs us in both. The duties we are here exhorted to employ ourselves in are the mortification of sin, living to God, sobriety, prayer, charity, hospitality, and the best improvement of our talents, which the apostle presses upon Christians from the consideration of the time they have lost in their sins, and the approaching end of all things (v. 1–11). The directions for sufferings are that we should not be surprised at them, but rejoice in them, only take care not to suffer as evil-doers. He intimates that their trials were near at hand, that their souls were in danger as well as their bodies, and that the best way to preserve their souls is to commit them to God in well-doing.


People living apart from God’s Word will have to give the following account: Living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry.


Peter’s point here is that people who don’t follow God’s Word lead destructive lives. They cheat, lie, fall into lust, drunkenness, sexual immorality – essentially, all kinds of “destestable idolatry.”


Followers or non-followers of God, we all have to face God one day and either be judged or rewarded. Followers will not be judged because Jesus was judged in our place when He drank from the cup of wrath on the cross. Followers of God are still sinners, but we are declared righteous through Jesus. Therefore, instead of being judged, we will be rewarded instead based on the good deeds we have done in God’s name.


Non-followers of God, which in this passage are represented by the Pagans, however, will be judged because they refused salvation offered by Jesus. That is, they have to be judged for their own sins because they rejected Jesus, and therefore rejected placing their inequities on Jesus’ shoulders. That is, they chose to carry their own sins on their own shoulders.


Therefore, Peter ended this passage by saying, “For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit” (1 Peter 4:6).


That is, Jesus told us to preach the gospel because He hopes that everyone can be saved through Him. He wants people to know that they do not need to shoulder their own sins. He wants people to know that He is here to carry all that burden. He willingly died for us, and He wants us to know that.


Non-followers of God may not understand why followers choose to live by God’s Word, to live righteously, instead of like them, who appear to live completely free lives, not limited by rules. They think followers live “dead” lives because they don’t know how to “enjoy total freedom.” They think that because they are judging followers by the body, not knowing that they are dead in the spirit. That is, they may live physically unlimited lives, but once their bodies die, their souls are condemned in Hell. What kind of freedom is that? If our souls live forever, shouldn’t we focus more on the eternal life of our spirit, which is governed by God?



Life Application Study Bible
*1 Peter 4:1, 2 Suffering helps us be like Christ, yet people will do anything to avoid pain. Followers of Christ, however, should be willing and prepared to do Gods will and to suffer for it if necessary. We can overcome sin when we focus on Christ and what he wants us to do. Pain and danger reveal our true values. Anyone who suffers for doing good and still faithfully obeys in spite of suffering has made a clean break with sin.
*1 Peter 4:3, 4 People whose lives change radically at conversion may experience contempt from old friends. They may be scorned not only because they refuse to participate in certain activities but also because their priorities have changed and they are now heading in the opposite direction. Their lives incriminate their friends' sinful activities. Mature Christians should help new believers resist such pressures of opposition by helping them to be faithful to Christ, surround them as new friends, and encouraging them to develop new habits and activities that are not only enjoyable but positive for their spiritual growth.
*1 Peter 4:5 The basis of salvation is our belief in Jesus (Acts 16:31), but the basis for judgment is how we have lived. All people will be judged; believers for the rewards they will receive; unbelievers for punishment. Those who inflict persecution are marked for punishment when they stand before God. All will give an account to God, so we must be ready. This may give you a new perspective on your activities and actions today. Are you prepared to explain them to God?
*1 Peter 4:5, 6 Many people in the early church had concerns about life after death. In Thessalonica, Christians worried that loved ones who died before Christ's return might never see Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Peter's readers needed to be reminded that the dead (both the faithful and their oppressors) would be judged. The judgment will be perfectly fair, he pointed out, because even the dead have heard the Good News (see also 3:18, 19). The Good News was first announced when Jesus Christ preached on the earth, but it has been operating since before the creation of the world (Ephesians 1:4) and, it affects all people, the dead as well as the living.

*1 Peter 4:7-9 We should live expectantly because Christ is coming soon. Getting ready to meet Christ involves continually growing in love for God and for others (see Jesus' summary of the law in Matthew 22:37-40). It is important to pray regularly and to reach out to needy people. Your possessions, status, and power will mean nothing to God's Kingdom, but you will spend eternity with other people. Invest your time and talents where they will make an eternal difference.
*1 Peter 4:10, 11 Our abilities should be faithfully used in serving others; none are for our own exclusive enjoyment. Some people, well aware of their abilities, believe that they have the right to use their abilities as they please. Others feel that they have no special talents at all. Peter addresses both groups in these verses. Everyone has some gifts; find yours and use them. Peter mentions speaking and serving. Paul lists these and other abilities in Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:8-11, and Ephesians 4:11. Even as you seek to discover your gifts, if you see a need in the church, seek to meet it. You may find gifts in areas you might not have guessed!
*1 Peter 4:11 How is God glorified when we use our abilities? When we use them as he directs, to help others, they will see Jesus in us and glorify him for the help they have received. Peter may have been thinking of Jesus' words, "Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father" (Matthew 5:16).


1 Peter 4:17
Zechariah 13:7-9
Malachi 3:1-5
Before the physical return of Jesus to reign on Earth for 1000 years, the Great Tribulation will take place. This period of time is also known as a time of Jacob’s troubles (Jeremiah 30:7). This means, this is a time of trial for the Israelites but not the Church. Hence, before the Tribulation, the Church will be raptured. And during this period of trial, many Israelites will be tested. 2/3 of them will die. Only 1/3 of them will survive. The purpose of this trial is for them to finally recognize who God is and for them to stop their idolatry and recognize the sovereignty of God. That is, the Israelites, as Isaiah has predicted, will finally be forever restored in God.


Life Application Study Bible:
*1 Peter 4:17, 18 This refers not to final judgment but to God's refining discipline (Hebrews 12:7). God often allows believers to sin and then experience the consequences. He does this for several reasons: (1) to show us our potential for sinning, (2) to encourage us to turn from sin and more constantly depend on him, (3) to prepare us to face other, even stronger temptations in the future, and (4) to help us stay faithful and keep on trusting him. If believers need earthly discipline (judgment) from God, how much more will unbelievers receive it? If the righteous are barely saved (only because of God's mercy), what chance have those who reject Christ?
*1 Peter 4:19 Everywhere the Bible counsels that we trust God - in good times and bad, during sunny skies and thunderclouds, when we have a pocket full of change and a pocket full of sawdust. How does trust work? (1) Trust overcomes fear. Genuine trust in God says, "Whatever mess I'm in, my heavenly Father will lead me." (2) Trust overcomes depression. No matter how overwhelming the situation or how low it makes you feel, God can draw you back to the light. (3) Trust overcomes hate. When careless or cruel people hurt you, sometimes irreparably, you can hate forever or you can trust God, but you can't do both. God is there to steady even the worst situation - always with a promise, always with hope. Commit your life to him for safekeeping. Rely on him when you face your worst circumstances.


1 Peter 5
Peter appeal to the church elders as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed. People who elevate Peter above all other apostles should read this again. Peter here is saying he is EQUAL to all other believers. He is not above anyone. He is another elder; he is another witness; he is another child of God who will share in His glory with other children of God.


We should respond to satanic opposition by putting on the full Armor of God (Ephesians 6), and pray for the protection of Jesus Christ.


Life Application Study Bible:
*1 Peter 5:1, 2 Peter, one of Jesus' 12 disciples, was one of the three who saw Christ's glory at the Transfiguration (Mark 9:1-13; 2 Peter 1:16-18). Often the spokesman for the apostles, Peter witnessed Jesus' death and resurrection, preached at Pentecost, and became a pillar of the Jerusalem church. But writing to the elders, he identified himself as a fellow elder, not a superior. He asked them to "care for the flock," exactly what Jesus had told him to do (John 21:15-17). Peter was taking his own advice as he worked along with the other elders in caring for God's faithful people. His identification with the elders is a good example of Christian leadership, showing that authority is based on service, not power (Mark 10:42-45).
*1 Peter 5:2-5 Peter describes several characteristics of good leaders in the church: (1) They realize they are caring for God's flock, not their own; (2) they lead out of eagerness to serve, not out of obligation; (3) they are concerned for what they can give, not for what they can get; (4) they lead by example, not force. All of us lead others in some way. Whatever our role, our leadership should be in line with these characteristics.
*1 Peter 5:4 The Great Shepherd is Jesus Christ. This refers to his second coming, when he will judge all people and give rewards to his faithful followers. The "crown," while metaphorical, pictures the glory believers will receive that is eternal and unchanging. What better motivation for selfless service! What better motivation for keeping the faith in the face of suffering and temptation!

*1 Peter 5:5 Both young and old can benefit from Peter's instructions. Pride often keeps older people from trying to understand young people and keeps young people from listening to those who are older. Peter told both young and old to be humble and to serve each other. Young men should follow the leadership of older men, who should lead by example. Respect those who are older than you, listen to those younger than you, and be humble enough to admit that you can learn from others.
*1 Peter 5:6 We often worry about our position and status, hoping to get proper recognition for what we do. But Peter advises us to remember that God's recognition counts more than human praise.God is able and willing to bless us according to his timing. Humbly obey God regardless of present circumstances, and in his good time - either in this life or in the next - he will honor you.
*1 Peter 5:7 Carrying your worries, stresses, and daily struggles by yourself shows that you have not trusted God fully with your life. It takes humility, however, to recognize that God cares, to admit your need, and to let others in God's family to help you.Sometimes we think that struggles caused by our own sin and foolishness are not God's concern. But when we turn to God in repentance, he will bear the weight even of those struggles. Letting God have your anxieties calls for action, not passivity. Don't submit to circumstances but to the Lord, who controls circumstances.
* 1 Peter 5:8, 9 Lions attack sick, young, or straggling animals; they choose victims who are alone or not alert. Peter warns us to watch out for Satan when we are suffering or being persecuted. If you are feeling alone, weak, helpless, and cut off from other believers, or if you are so focused on your troubles that you forget to watch for danger, those are the times when you are especially vulnerable to Satan's attacks. During times of suffering, seek other Christians for support. Keep your eyes on Christ, and resist the devil. Then, says James, "he will flee from you" (James 4:7).
*1 Peter 5:10 When we are suffering, we often feel as though our pain will never end. Peter gave these faithful Christians a broader perspective. In comparison with eternity, their suffering would last only "a little while." Some of Peter's readers would be strengthened and delivered in their own lifetimes. Others would be released from their suffering through death. All of God's faithful followers are assured of an eternal life with Christ, where there will be no suffering (Revelation 21:4).
*1 Peter 5:12 Silas was one of the men chosen to deliver the letter from the Jerusalem council to the church in Antioch (Acts 15:22). He accompanied Paul on his second missionary journey (Acts 15:40-18:11), is mentioned by Paul in the salutation of Paul's letters to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:1), and ministered with Timothy in Corinth (2 Corinthians 1:19).
*1 Peter 5:13 Mark, also called John Mark, was known to many of this letter's readers because he had traveled widely (Acts 12:25-13:13, 15:36-41) and was recognized as a leader in the church (Colossians 4:10; Philemon 1:24). Mark was probably with the disciples at the time of Jesus' arrest (Mark 14:51, 52). Tradition says that Peter was Mark's main source of information when Mark wrote his Gospel.
*1 Peter 5:14 Peter wrote this letter just before the cruel emperor Nero began persecuting Christians in Rome and throughout the empire. Afraid for his life, Peter had three times denied even knowing Jesus (John 18:15-27). But here, having learned how to stand firm in an evil world, he encouraged other Christians who were facing persecution for their faith. Peter was martyred for his faith because he lived by the words he wrote. Those who stand for Christ will be persecuted because the world is ruled by Christ's greatest enemy. But just as the small group of early believers stood against persecution, so we must be willing to stand for our faith with the patience, endurance, and courage that Peter exhibited.

1 Peter 3:7

http://pastormark.tv/2011/11/15/tough-text-tuesday-1-peter-3-7


Scripture study by Pastor Mark Driscoll
11/15/2011


1 Peter 3:7
"Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered."


At Mars Hill, we love healthy marriages and families that are based on the Bible and centered on Jesus. Unfortunately, in our society, marriage is often a joke—as are the men who enter into marriage (or avoid it like the plague). In our culture of extended adolescence many men work as little as possible, play as much as possible, and take as much as possible—especially from women. In addition, the worst men are also bullies and abusers of women.


That’s one reason why we are so stern with men in our church. The Bible calls men to be something radically different than what we find in our society today. A man is to be tough for his family to provide for and protect them. A man is to be tender with his family to love and serve them. Any man who is only tough will abuse his family. Any man who is only tender will allow others to abuse his family. We are stern with men because we want to see them change by the power of the Holy Spirit to be like Jesus who was perfectly tough and tender.


In 1 Peter 3, the Apostle Peter, gives some teaching on how godly marriages and families should operate by God’s grace. He tells wives in 1 Peter 3:1 to “be subject to your own husbands.” In our day this is a controversial enough statement in itself, but then he goes on to tell husbands in verse 7 to “live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel.” If “being subject” to one’s husband grates against modern feeling, calling a woman a “weaker vessel” does little to help. But what does Peter mean exactly? Is he actually insulting women? Or is something else going on here?


Men and women are equal but different
The first thing we should establish is that we believe that men and women are equal. One is not better than the other or more loved by God than the other. Men and women equally bear the image of God. God’s salvation through Jesus is available to all and freely given. Paul makes this clear in Galatians when he writes, “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to the promise” (Galatians 3:27-29).


That being said, the Bible also teaches that men and women have complementary roles (Ephesians 5, 1 Peter 3, Genesis 2). In some ways this is like a left and right hand that are similar but different and that work together with one hand taking the lead. Within the covenant of marriage, men are the head and women are the helpers. It should be said that being a helper is not a bad thing or a denigrating term. God in places like Psalms and Hebrews calls himself our helper.


Still some people today have problems with what the Bible says about marriage. For some the problem is a lack of understanding of the context and culture surrounding the Bible’s writings on marriage, men, and women. For others, it’s simply a matter of believing the Bible is wrong and culture is right.


For the first set of people, I want to help you understand that Peter is not here denigrating women but instead pushing men to be godly, loving, and considerate husbands.


For those in the second set of people, I’d ask you to humbly ask whether you are exchanging the truths of Scripture for the lies of culture and to ask the Holy Spirit to help you place the Scriptures as the highest authority in your life.


And, let us remember that in a culture where women were denigrated, treated as second class citizens, and often regarded as little more than property, the Bible’s emphasis on men loving, serving, dying for, and being considerate with their wife was revolutionary and despised by bad men. The women heard this teaching as liberation and protection, which is exactly as was intended.


What does Peter mean by “weaker vessel?”
Very quickly, we’ll examine one of the bigger tripping points in this passage for modern readers. Quite frankly, many people lose the great truths that this verse is teaching about husbands by focusing inordinately on this one phrase, “weaker vessel.” So, I want to clarify what it does and does not mean so that we can then focus fully on what Peter is saying to husbands.


You may have seen the phrase “weaker vessel” translated differently, such as “weaker sex” (RSV) or “weaker partner” (NIV). But the second word in the phrase literally means “vessel” (skeuos in Greek).[1] This word could be used in a general sense of almost any object used for any purpose (in Matthew 12:29 it is the “goods” of someone’s house), including a jar or dish (think of “jars of clay” in 2 Corinthians 4:7). But figuratively, it can also be used in reference to be people with a focus on some kind of function.


For instance, in Acts 9:15, Paul is called God’s “chosen vessel” to carry his name before the Gentiles (cf. also “vessels of mercy/wrath” in Rom 9:22-23). In 1 Thessalonians 4:4 believers must control their “vessels” (that is, bodies) in holiness and honor.


In 1 Peter 3:7 we see this figurative use of the word to describe wives. It should be pointed out, though, that by implication Peter calls men “vessels,” too, since
the use of “weaker” shows that a “stronger” vessel exists, which would be the husband.[2]


The word for “weak” (asthenēs) in the NT usually means “weak” or “sick.” Here the meaning is “weak,” but possibly with a nuance that is closer to “delicate” (cf. to the “weaker” parts of the body in 1 Corinthians 12:22), as opposed to “weak” in a more derogatory sense. It is also in a comparative form, which means it is translated not “weak” but “weaker.” So Peter’s main point is not to call a woman “weak,” but rather to emphasize that she is “weaker” in comparison to something else, in this case her husband. The husband must be mindful of this in how he treats his wife.


Think of it this way. Generally speaking, a woman is like a fine crystal glass and a man is like a thermos. One is not better than the other, but they are different. And, if you slam them together, the thermos always wins. Men are taught throughout life—from sports to business—to find a weakness and exploit it. But that kind of thinking, while fine in some arenas of life, will destroy a wife and a marriage.


Practically, this means that, as a general rule, men can be treated more toughly than women, and that a husband must be very careful to not treat his wife like one of the guys. Guys tend to emotionally and physically treat one another in a way that is inappropriate for a man to treat a woman. In its worst form, men who ignore this command become emotional bullies of their wives and threaten, intimidate, and verbally abuse them. Or they physically intimidate, harm, beat, rape, or even kill women. I Peter 3:7 boldly confronts this sort of behavior by commanding men to use their strength to love and protect, not abuse and harm, their wife.


I want to be emphatically clear that the Bible is here speaking about physical weakness only. Women are not spiritually, morally, emotionally, or mentally weaker. But, in most marriages if a husband and wife had a physical fight, she would be abused and he would win. Knowing that, God’s men are to make every effort to never even go in the direction of using their strength in any abusive way.


For Grace and I, this explains why, since I first met her, she has often said she felt safe with me. She had been around men before we met who made inappropriate comments, tried to force themselves on her, and made her feel unsafe and vulnerable. Early in our dating, I actually had to physically come between her and a guy who was stalking her and was willing to ensure her safety no matter what. I told him that for the rest of his life any access to Grace would literally have to come through me, and I was willing to do whatever it took to ensure that never happened. He left, and we have not seen him since. It then dawned on me that she often walked around feeling unsafe in a way that I never had. It became one of my life goals to ensure that she feels safe because of my toughness for her and my tenderness with her.


Practically, this means when we go for a walk, I walk on the side of the walkway closest to the cars so that if something happens I can get her out of harms way and be the one to get hit by the car. When we go out to eat, I sit at the edge of the booth with easiest access out so that if anything happens I can get between her and danger. Grace’s safety and well-being is constantly on my mind as her protector and friend.


I grew up around violence, much of it directed by women from men. I now pastor a church where the women who have been sexually assaulted by a man number enough to constitute their own mega-church. These women enter our church having suffered at the hands of men. Jesus becomes the first man they've ever trusted. And I want their male friends, boyfriends, and husbands to reflect Jesus to them.


In addition to providing things like Redemption Groups and books like Rid of My Disgrace, both created by our church leaders to help women who’ve been abused by men, I also want to continually be clear to the men about what God and we expect from them. For those who hear my angry rants outside of the context of our church and the men and women who call it home and me pastor, I understand how this can be confusing at times and hope this blog is clarifying for the times I have not articulated things clearly or been interpreted rightly.


The duty of a godly husband
And this leads us into the main point of Peter’s writing: husbands are to be good men who love their wives by living with them “in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman.”


As the head of the family, a man is in an important and unique role given by God to be stewarded well to the heath of the family and the glory of God. Unfortunately, in our culture, most men abdicate their role and make a mockery of it before the world and God.


For a woman, the decision to trust a man to be her husband, to live with her without endangering her and lead her without harming her, is a frightening one, especially when that man turns out to be a sinning husband who leads poorly and abuses his role. Men, understand the gravity of your call as a husband and as a dad. Do not abuse it.


Peter’s call to husbands is to love your wife by understanding her and honoring her.


Understanding and honoring your wife
You need to know your wife well to develop true intimacy with her. Another way of saying intimacy is “into me see.” Your wife wants you to be with her, to talk with her, to hear her, and to understand what she loves and what makes her tick. You can’t get there by coming home and watching sports or poking around on the Internet until bedtime.


Love your wife well by being present with her, conversing with her, enjoying time with her, and laying down the things you find valuable to do the things that she finds valuable.


Conclusion
In looking at 1 Peter 3:7, it’s clear that Peter’s intent is not to make a commentary on gender so much as to push men to be good, loving, safe, selfless, and considerate husbands. Practically, this means that as a husband your priorities should be ordered as such: Christian, husband, father, and employee. Everything else comes after that or not at all.


The call to biblical manhood is a high one but it costs much. You wife needs you to be a strong man who leads sacrificially by loving her and your kids well, not in a domineering or weak way but in a tough and tender way that shows you’re willing to work hard to provide and protect, and to do the hard work of being available emotionally and leading spiritually out of deep love for her and your kids. In doing so, you’ll fulfill Peter’s call in 1 Peter 3:7 and God’s desire for you as a husband.


Further resources
I preached two sermons in our “Trial” series on 1 Peter 3:1-7 that can be used as supplemental resources to this blog post.
“Marriage and Women” (1 Peter 3:1-6)
“Marriage and Men” (1 Peter 3:7)

1 Peter 1-2

Notes compiled with my BSF group


Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Peter
http://www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm?AuthorID=4&contentID=1837&commInfo=5&topic=1%20Peter 


The design of this first epistle is,
I. To explain more fully the doctrines of Christianity to these newly-converted Jews.
II. To direct and persuade them to a holy conversation, in the faithful discharge of all personal and relative duties, whereby they would secure their own peace and effectually confute the slanders and reproaches of their enemies.
III. To prepare them for sufferings.
This seems to be his principal intention; for he has something to this purport in every chapter, and does, by a great variety of arguments, encourage them to patience and perseverance in the faith, lest the persecutions and sad calamities that were coming upon them should prevail with them to apostatize from Christ and the gospel. It is remarkable that you find not so much as one word savouring of the spirit and pride of a pope in either of these epistles.



1 Peter 1:1–3
Peter wrote mainly to "God’s elect". These people are…
1) Strangers in the world
2) Scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia
3) Have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood


Further Reading:
http://www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm?AuthorID=4&contentID=1837&commInfo=5&topic=1%20Peter  




Life Application Study Bible footnote:
* 1 Peter 1:1 This letter is addressed to "God's chosen people who are living as foreigners" in various parts of the world - the Jewish Christians scattered throughout the world as a result of persecution against believers in and around Jerusalem. The first believers and leaders of the early church were Jews. When they became Christians, they didn't give up their Jewish heritage, just as you didn't give up your nationality when you became a follower of Christ. Because of persecution, these believers had been scattered throughout the Roman world (this scattering is described in Acts 8:1-4). Persecution didn't stop the spread of the Good News; instead, persecution served as a way to introduce the Good News to the whole empire. Thus, the churches to whom Peter wrote also included Gentile Christians.
*1 Peter 1:1 The apostle Peter wrote this letter to encourage believers who would likely face trials and persecution under Emperor Nero. During most of the first century, Christians were not hunted down and killed throughout the Roman Empire. The could, however, expect social and economic persecution from three main sources: the Romans, the Jews, and their own families. All would very likely be misunderstood; some would be harassed; a few would be tortured and even put to death.
The legal status of Christians in the Roman Empire was unclear. Many Romans still thought of Christians as members of a Jewish sect, and because the Jewish religion was legal, they considered Christianity legal also - as long as Christians complied with the empire's laws. However, they became the target of persecution when they refused to worship the emperor as a god, refused to worship at pagan temples (so business for these moneymaking enterprises dropped wherever Christianity took hold), or exposed and rejected the horrible immorality of pagan culture.
Many Jews did not appreciated being legally associated with Christians. As the book of Acts frequently records, Jews occasionally harmed Christians physically, drove them out of town, or attempted to turn Roman officials against them. Saul, later the great apostle Paul, was an early Jewish persecutor of Christians.
Another source of persecution was the Christian's own family. Under Roman law, the head of the household had absolute authority over all its members. Unless the ruling male became a Christian, the wife, children, and servants who were believers might well face extreme hardship. It they were sent away, they would have no place to turn but the church; if they were beaten, no court of law would uphold their interests.
Peter may have been writing especially for new Christians and those planning to be baptized. Peter wanted to warn them about what lay ahead, and they needed his encouraging words to help them face opposition. This letter is still helpful for any Christians facing trials. Many Christians around the world are living under governments more repressive than the Roman Empire of the first century. Christians everywhere are subject to misunderstanding, ridicule, and even harassment by unbelieving friends, employers, and family members. None of us is exempt from catastrophe, pain, illness, and death - trials that, like persecution, make us lean heavily on God's grace. For today's readers, as well as for Peter's original audience, the theme of this letter is hope.
*1 Peter 1:1 Peter (also called Simon and Cephas) was one of the 12 disciples chosen by Jesus (Mark 1:16-18; John 1:42) and, with James and John, was part of the inner group that Jesus singled out for special training and fellowship. Peter was one of the first to recognize Jesus as the Messiah, God's Son, and Jesus gave him a special leadership role in the church (Matthew 16:16-19; Luke 22:31, 32; John 21:15-19). Although during Jesus' trial Peter denied knowing Jesus, Peter repented and became a great apostle.
*1 Peter 1:2 Peter encouraged his readers by this strong declaration that they were chosen by God the Father. At one time, only the nation of Israel could claim to be God's chosen people; but through Christ, all believers - Jews and Gentiles - belong to God. Our salvation and security rest in God's merciful choice; no trials or persecutions can take away the eternal life he gives to those who believe in him.
*1 Peter 1:2 This verse mentions all three members of the Trinity: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. All members of the Trinity work to bring about our salvation. The Father chose us before we chose him (Ephesians 1:4). Jesus Christ, the Son, died for us while we were still sinners (Romans 5:6-10). The Holy Spirit brings us the benefits of salvation and sets us apart (makes us holy, sanctifies us) for God's service (2 Thessalonians 2:13).
*1 Peter 1:2 How did God "choose" us? Don't we make our own choices? God alone originates and accomplishes our salvation because of his grace; we do nothing to earn it. Being "chosen" in no way removes the necessity for people to choose to follow. The fact that God knows all events and decisions beforehand, even ordains them beforehand, does not mean that he forces the actions of his creatures or leaves them with no choice. Instead, God's foreknowledge means that he took the initiative and chose people before they had done anything to deserve it. God had intimate knowledge of these future believers; he knew who would believe, and he knew them personally. Those chosen ones were known by God the Father as a father knows his children, except that God knew about them from eternity past. God is not trapped in time - what he knows is from eternity past into eternity future. Believers are chosen, but not against their will. When the time comes, they accept the gospel message.

1 Peter 1:3-12
1) We are saved not through our own works but through faith. This is awesome because if our salvation was based on our own works, we would never be good enough! We would never make it!


2) Because of our salvation, we became not of this world; we became children of God. And as children of God, we inherit, with Jesus, God’s kingdom, and we get to rule as kings and priests with Jesus. What worldly treasure can measure up to this?


Life Application Study Bible footnote:
* 1 Peter 1:3 The term born again refers to spiritual birth (regeneration) - the Holy Spirit's act of bringing believers into God's family. Jesus used this concept of new birth when he explained salvation to Nicodemus (see John 3). This term is a wonderful metaphor of new life from God. You cannot be a Christian without a fresh beginning based on the salvation Christ brings. To be born again is a magnificent gift from God.
* 1 Peter 1:3-5 Do you need encouragement? Peter's words offer joy and hope in times of trouble, and he bases his confidence on what God has done for us in Christ Jesus. We live with the wonderful expectation of eternal life (1:3). Our hope is not only for the future; eternal life begins when we trust Christ and join God's family. God will help us remain true to our faith through whatever difficult times we must face. The "last day" is the judgment day of Christ described in Romans 14:10 and Revelation 20:11-15. No matter what trials or persecution you may face, your soul cannot be harmed if you have accepted Christ's gift of salvation. You will receive the promised rewards.


1 Peter 1:6-7
Peter said, “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.”


When we continue to look to Jesus even when we are in trial, when we continue to place our faith in Him, trusting that He will deliver us from all difficulties, our outward behavior will be an example to others, showing them what it looks like to have our complete faith in God. And when God delivers us, they, too, will see the glory of God (Leviticus 25:18-22). This is a great example of how we can lead people to God by our works.


This is the same idea behind the sabbatical years observed by the Israelites in the past. God instructed the Israelites to rest every 7 years, to not work for a full year. And during that rest, they are to devote to God, to rely on not themselves but on God, from the provision to food to shelter. The idea here is that the Israelites would show others what it means to live with their faith in the Lord, and how God provides for His people. This is important because through the Israelites, others can then come to know God (Genesis 12:3) and seek God for refuge from Satan's manipulations and attacks.


1 Peter 1:13-16
God’s purpose for us is to be His children. This is why Peter instructed us to be holy. As image-bearers of God, we are to reflect God’s image. And since God is holy, we are also to be holy. Holy is not an abstract idea. Paul explained what it means to be holy: “Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance” (1 Peter 1:13-14). This is how we can be holy in all that we do.


Life Application Study Bible:
*1 Peter 1:13, 14 The imminent return of Christ should motivate us to live for him. This means being mentally alert ("think clearly"), disciplined ("exercise self-control"), and focused ("look forward"). Are you ready to meet Christ, living as God's obedient child?
*1 Peter 1:14-16 The God of Israel and of the Christian church is holy - he sets the standard for morality. Unlike the Roman gods, he is not warlike, adulterous, or spiteful. Unlike the gods of the pagan cults popular in the first century, he is not bloodthirsty or promiscuous. He is a God of mercy and justice who cares personally for each of his followers. Our holy God expects us to imitate him by following his high moral standards and by being both merciful and just.
*1 Peter 1:14-16 Peter's words mean that all parts of lives and character should be in the process of becoming conformed, both inwardly and outwardly, to God's standards. After people commit their lives to Christ, they sometimes still feel a pull back to their old ways. Peter tells us to be like our heavenly Father - holy in everything we do. Holiness means being totally devoted or dedicated to God, set aside for his special use and set apart from sin and its influence. We're to be set apart and different, not blending in with the crowd, yet not being different just for the sake of being different. God's qualities in our lives make us different. Our focus and priorities must be his. All this is in direct contrast to our old ways (1:14). We cannot become holy on our own, but God gives us his Holy Spirit to help us obey and to give us power to overcome sin. Don't use the excuse that you can't help slipping into sin. Rely on God's power to free you from sin's grip.


1 Peter 1:17-21
Before Jesus died on the cross for us, the Jews had to use the blood of lambs that were without blemish or defect to atone for their sins (Leviticus 4-5:13). However, since the blood of animals is only a temporary solution (which is why this needed to be done once every year), this was not an eternal solution. It certainly wasn't a satisfactory solution either because it merely covered up the stench of our sin, so to speak. The blood of the lamb was not able to completely cleanse human sin!


John the Baptist introduced Jesus as the Lamb of God because the blood of Jesus atoned for our sins ETERNALLY. Jesus was a perfect man, and the blood of a perfect man is the eternal solution to cleanse the sins of man.


Life Application Study Bible:
*1 Peter 1:17 "Reverent fear" is the healthy respect of a believer for the all-powerful God. Because God is the Judge of all the earth, we dare not ignore him or treat him casually. We should not assume that our privileged status as God's children gives us freedom to do whatever we want. We should not be spoiled children but grateful children who love to show respect for our heavenly Father.
*1 Peter 1:18, 19 A slave was "ransomed" when someone paid money to buy his or her freedom. God ransomed us from the tyranny of sin, not with money, but with the precious blood of his own Son (Romans 6:6, 7; 1 Corinthians 6:20; Colossians 2:13, 14; Hebrews 9:12). We cannot escape from sin on our own; only the life of God's Son can free us.
*1 Peter 1:20 Christ's sacrifice for our sins was not an afterthought, not something God decided to do when the world spun out of control This plan was set in motion by the all-knowing, eternal God long before the world was created. What a comfort it must have been to Jewish believers to know that Christ's coming and his work of salvation were planned by God long before the world began. This assured them that the law was not being scrapped because it didn't work but that both the law and the coming of Christ were part of God's eternal plan.


1 Peter 1:23
Paul spoke a lot about being born again in his epistles. The general idea of being born again is to die in our sins and be born in Christ. What does this mean? We should remember the following:


1) We are sinners (Romans 3:23). Really understand that this means. We are sinner because compared to God, we are not perfect. No matter how good of a person we are, we have bad thoughts, we make mistakes, etc. These imperfections define us as sinners. There really is no sugar-coating this fact.


2) And by God’s judgment, the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23).


3) The blood of Jesus cleanses us from our past, present, and future sins ETERNALLY (Romans 10:9-13).


Knowing the above, we know the following:
1) If we continue to sin, we die physically and receive eternal suffering.
2) If we do not receive Christ, we die spiritually and receive eternal suffering.
3) However, if we die in our sinful spirit and be born again in the spirit of Jesus, we receive eternal life.


In sum, by repenting of our sins, we know that we are dead as sinners. And by accepting Jesus, we know that Jesus gives us life by washing away our sins. Thus, when we become Christians, we are born-again in the spirit. We were born once in the flesh, inheriting the sins of Adam and Eve. We need to be born again in the spirit to receive eternal cleansing and to inherit the Kingdom of God.


Hence,
Step 1: Realize we are sinful.
Step 2: Realize we can't be perfect without God's help
Step 3: Realize that Jesus died on the cross to wash us of our sins.
Step 4: Accept this gift of grace and be reconciled to God. Step 5: We will be born again, because our old sinful self has died and are given a new life in Christ that is holy.


This process is best summarized by Paul in Galatians 2:20
"I have been crucified with Christ; and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I know live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."


Life Application Study Bible:
* 1 Peter 1:22 "Sincere love" involves selfless giving; a self-centered person can't truly love. God's love and forgiveness free you to take your eyes off yourselves and to meet others' needs. By sacrificing his life, Christ showed that he truly loves you. Now you can love others by following his example and giving of yourself sacrificially.
* 1 Peter 1:24, 25 Quoting Isaiah 40:6-8, Peter reminds believers that everything in this life - possessions, accomplishments, people - will eventually fade away and disappear. Only God's will, word, and work are permanent. We must stop grasping temporary and begin focusing our time, money, and energy on the permanent: the Word of God and our eternal life in Christ.


1 Peter 2:4–8

"Living" Stone (1 Peter 2:4): Christ is alive today and is interceding for us everyday. Therefore, we shall rejoice! 

"Precious" Stone (1 Peter 2:6-7): Christ is precious to God and His children because His blood reconciled us to God. Therefore, we shall treasure Christ and all that He has done for us.

Peter’s main idea here is that we are to be like Jesus, to be living stones to those around us. We are to bring people out of darkness and lead them into the light. We are to resist temptations of the flesh and through our deeds show those around us the glory of God.


I think the biggest factor that causes people to stumble over Christ today is pride. Many people think they know what the truth is. They think they have all the answers. They refuse to think. They refuse to analyze. And therefore, they lock their minds in a prison, never allowing their minds to see the light. They readily criticize other people, but they never use the same criteria to criticize themselves. I thus urge us all to be driven by the truth rather than prideful emotions.



Life Application Study Bible
*1 Peter 2:6-8 No doubt Peter often thought of Jesus' words to him right after he confessed that Jesus was "the Messiah, the Son of the living God": "You are Peter...and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it" (Matthew 16:16, 18). What is the stone that really counts in the building of the church? Peter answers: Christ himself. Jesus Christ is called "the stone that makes people stumble, the rock that makes them fall." Some will stumble over Christ because they reject him or refuse to believe that he is who he says he is. But Psalm 118:22 says that "the stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone," the most important part of God's building, the church. What are the characteristics of Christ, the cornerstone? (1) He is completely trustworthy; (2) he is precious to believers; (3) and, though rejected by some, he is the most important part of the church. People who refuse to believe in Christ have made the greatest mistake of their lives. They have stumbled over the one person who could save them and give meaning to their lives, and they have fallen into God's hands for judgment.





1 Peter 2:9-12
As Christians, we are to...
- Abstain from sinful desires (1 Peter 2:11)
- Live good lives so that pagans will see our good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us (1 Peter 2:12)
- Submit ourselves for the Lord's sake to every human authority (1 Peter 2:13)
- Live as free people, but do not use our freedom as a cover-up for evil (1 Peter 2:16)
- Live as God's slaves (1 Peter 2:16)
- Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor (1 Peter 2:17)


Christians, or children of God, are not of this world (John 15:19). We are not of this world, because we do not desire the things of this world. This is important because Satan still currently rules this world (1 John 4:4), and if we desire the things of this world, we would fall under the power of Satan.


As long as we continue to live as Christ lived, to uphold Christian values, to never compromise the Truth of God, we will always be regarded as “aliens” or “strangers” because to the people who are of the world, we would be very different. We would be different because we see things from God’s perspective (not man’s or Satan’s), and we hold God’s values (not man’s or Satan’s).


Life Application Study Bible
* 1 Peter 2:9 Christians sometimes speak of "the priesthood of all believers." In Old Testament times, people did not approach God directly. A priest acted as intermediary between God and sinful human beings. With Christ's victory on the cross, that pattern changed. Now we can come directly into God's presence without fear (Hebrews 4:16), and we are given the responsibility of bringing others to him also (2 Corinthians 5:18-21). When we are united with Christ as members of his body, we join in his priestly work of reconciling God and people.
*1 Peter 2:9, 10 People often base their self-concept on their accomplishments. But our relationship with Christ is far more important than our jobs, successes, wealth, or knowledge. We have been chosen by God as his very own, and we have been called to represent him to others. Remember that your value comes from being one of God's children, not from what you can achieve. You have worth because of what God does, not because of what you do.

*1 Peter 2:11 As believers, we are "temporary residents and foreigners" in this world because our real home is with God. Heaven is not the pink-cloud-and-harp existence popular in cartoons. Heaven is where God lives. Life in heaven operates according to God's principles and values, and it is eternal and unshakable. The Kingdom of Heaven came to earth in the symbolism of the Jewish sanctuary (the Tabernacle and Temple), where God's presence dwelt. it came in a fuller way in the person of Jesus Christ: "God with us." It spread through the entire world as the Holy Spirit came to live in every believer. Someday, after God judges and destroys all sin, the Kingdom of Heaven will rule every corner of this earth. John saw this day in a vision, and he cried out, "Look, God's home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them" (Revelation 21:3). Our true loyalty should be to our citizenship in heaven, not to our citizenship here, because the earth will be destroyed. Our loyalty should be to God's truth, his way of life, and his dedicated people. Because we are loyal to God, we often will feel like strangers in a world that would prefer to ignore God.
*1 Peter 2:12 Peter's advice sounds like Jesus' in Matthew 5:16: If your actions are above reproach, even hostile people will end up praising God. Peter's readers were scattered among unbelieving Gentiles who were inclined to believe and spread vicious lies about Christians. Gracious, godly, and winsome behavior on the part of Christians could show these rumors to be false and might even win some of the unsaved critics to the Lord. Don't write off people because they misunderstand Christianity; instead, show them Christ by your life. The day may come when those who criticize you will praise God with you.
*1 Peter 2:16 Christians have freedom in Christ, but the apostles defined freedom more narrowly than the normal use of the word in common language. Christians use freedom as a tool for life of exuberant service. It's the foundation that God gives to us to reach our highest potential. Because God gives us freedom from religious rules and eternal guilt, we must not seek to indulge our own desires; instead, we should reach for the best God has for us. Let your freedom sing of power, joy, and love--accountable to God, devoted to others.



1 Peter 2:13–17
Peter urges his readers to respect all human authorities--the good and the bad. This is different from today where the people are constantly challenging and questioning the authorities.


It is very difficult to see things from God’s perspective, sometimes nearly impossible. However, we should always remember that God has a plan for EVERYONE. When we disagree with the authorities, we need to remember that God put them there in the first place (Christian or not! Read the Book of Esther for a vivid illustration of this scenario). If they are leading horribly, they have to answer to God on judgment day. If we follow badly, we have to answer to God on judgment day. What does this mean? Well, God is very clear. We are to submit to every authority God has instituted among men. Good or bad leaders, we have to submit to them. This means to show proper respect REGARDLESS of how good or bad a leader they are. This respect is given because of our reverence to God's sovereignty. This doesn't mean we allow ourselves to be in an abusive environment. This means we leave the judgment in the hands of God, and we just go on doing good work. We let our good work show others the light. We do not turn to evil just so we can obtain justice by our own hands. Doing evil against evil is not righteous in God’s eyes.


Life Application Study Bible
*1 Peter 2:13-17 When Peter told his readers to respect all human authority, he was speaking of the Roman Empire under Nero, a notoriously cruel tyrant. Obviously he was not telling believers to compromise their consciences; as Peter had told the high priest years earlier, "We must obey God rather than any human authority" (Acts 5:29). But in most aspects of daily life, it was possible and desirable for Christians to live according to the law of their land. Today, some Christians live in freedom while others live under repressive governments. All are commanded to cooperate with the rulers as far as conscience will allow. We are to do this "for the Lord's sake" - so that his Good News and his people will be respected. If we are to be persecuted, it should be for obeying God, not for breaking moral or civil laws.


1 Peter 2:18-31
I think some people take the idea of suffering to the wrong extreme, and we need to be careful about how we understand what Peter is saying here.


Peter, using Jesus as an example, showed us how we can continue to submit to authorities, even when the authorities are evil and harsh. WHY DID JESUS DO THAT? Because if Jesus used His powers as God and judged them, Jesus would not have been able to redeem us as man! Jesus needed to live PERFECTLY as a MAN in order for His blood to bring eternal salvation to mankind! Thus, if Jesus had not submitted to authorities, He would have sinned in the eyes of God! He would not have been able to die as a perfect man, and his blood wouldn’t have been able to wash away our sin!


Thus, Peter is using Jesus as an example to show us how we can continue to live righteously even when our environment is hostile to our living.


The key here is LIVING RIGHTEOUSLY. It is NOT about suffering pointlessly.


Paul warned us that we will be persecuted when we choose to follow Christ (2 Timothy 3:12). Therefore, we suffer BECAUSE we live righteously, BECAUSE we are the light. Our righteous living and our light disturb those who want to continue to live in the dark, those who want to continue to live sinful lives. We suffer because these people want to get rid of us, want to pull us down, want us to fall and never get up so that they would no longer be disturbed by our light and could go on doing whatever they want. This was why Jesus suffered. This was why Jesus was persecuted. The Pharisees could not stand Jesus’ righteousness. The Pharisees wanted to be the ones in power, the ones who were right, the ones who got to judge everybody else. And when Jesus came along, telling them that they are wrong and need to repent, instead of allowing the light to shine through them, they blocked that light and killed that light. They killed Jesus so that they could shut Jesus up!


So, the question isn’t about how do we suffer. That’s not the point. The point is, how do we live righteously? When we live righteously, we will be persecuted. This is why Paul said, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). And we bear it because Christ bore it so that He could die a perfect man for us. We bear it because righteous living teaches us that God will judge everyone, and we are not the judge.


We show others we are God’s people by living out God’s values and doing God’s work. If we used evil against evil, we are no different than the people of the world, and then, how are we going to be living proof to them about the glory of God? We strive to live righteously as Jesus lived. Jesus lived righteously so that He could bring us salvation. We live righteously so that we can show people the light and bring them to Jesus.


Personally, I think being persecuted is a good sign. It tells me that I’m doing my job as a Christian, that I’m shining the light, that I’m doing God’s work. So for me, persecution is encouragement. I see it as a healthy "side effect" of living righteously. I’d rather be doing God’s work than telling people lies and hiding behind lies just so my life would be easier.


Life Application Study Bible:
*1 Peter 2:18-21 Many Christians were household slaves. It would be easy for them to submit to masters who were gentle and kind, but Peter encouraged loyalty and perseverance even in the face of unjust treatment. In the same way, we should submit to our employers, whether they are considerate or harsh. By so doing, we may win them to Christ by our good example. Paul gave similar advice in his letters (see Ephesians 6:5-9; Colossians 3:22-4:15), as did Jesus (Matthew 5:46; Luke 6:32-36).

*1 Peter 2:21, 22 We may suffer for many reasons. Some suffering is the direct result of our own sin; some happens because of our foolishness; some is the result of living in a fallen world. Peter is writing about suffering that comes as a result of doing good. Christ never sinned, and yet he suffered so that we could be set free. Jesus' suffering was part of God's plan (Matthew 16:21-23; Luke 24:25-27, 44-47) and was intended to save us (Matthew 20:28; 26:28). All who follow Jesus must be prepared to suffer (Mark 8:34, 35). Our goal should be to face suffering as he did - with patience, calmness, and confidence that God is in control of the future.
*1 Peter 2:24 Christ died for our sins, in our place, so we would not have to suffer the punishment we deserve. This is called "substitutionary atonement".